25107, Hernshaw, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 25107, Hernshaw, West Virginia is 94 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 25107 has some form of health insurance. 44.34 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.22 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 25107 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 88 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25107. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 114 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 603 health care providers accessible to residents in 25107, Hernshaw, West Virginia.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Hernshaw, WV (ZIP Code 25107)

The analysis delves into the availability and quality of asthma care within Hernshaw, West Virginia (ZIP Code 25107), focusing on primary care physician resources and related services. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive overview, evaluating factors crucial for effective asthma management.

Hernshaw, a small community nestled in the Appalachian region, faces unique healthcare challenges. Limited access to specialized medical care and a predominantly rural population can significantly impact asthma management. The evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of access to care. In Hernshaw, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is likely a significant concern. Rural areas often struggle to attract and retain medical professionals. The number of PCPs per 1,000 residents directly impacts the ability of patients to secure timely appointments and ongoing care. A low ratio can lead to delayed diagnoses, inadequate treatment, and increased asthma exacerbations. Researching the exact ratio for 25107 is crucial. This would involve examining local healthcare provider directories, contacting the West Virginia Board of Medicine, and potentially utilizing data from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). This data would inform the initial score.

The presence of standout practices, those demonstrating excellence in asthma management, is another crucial factor. Identifying practices that prioritize patient education, utilize evidence-based treatment protocols, and actively engage in asthma control programs is essential. These practices often employ certified asthma educators, provide comprehensive patient education materials, and offer individualized asthma action plans. Examining online reviews, patient testimonials, and practice websites can help identify these standout practices. The score would be positively influenced by the existence of such practices.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly improve asthma care in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management through telemedicine are likely to provide better asthma control, especially for patients with mobility issues or transportation limitations. The analysis needs to determine which practices, if any, in 25107 utilize telemedicine for asthma management.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in asthma management, yet they are critical. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Practices that integrate mental health services, such as providing access to therapists or counselors, can improve patient outcomes. The assessment should identify any partnerships between primary care practices and mental health providers in the Hernshaw area.

The integration of mental health services is an important factor in the asthma score. Patients struggling with asthma often experience anxiety and depression. Practices that offer access to mental health professionals, either through on-site services or referrals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This integration can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

The analysis must also consider the availability of specialized asthma care. While primary care physicians are the first point of contact for most asthma patients, some individuals require the expertise of pulmonologists or allergists. The presence of these specialists within a reasonable distance from Hernshaw is crucial. The score would be negatively impacted by a lack of specialist access.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the availability of asthma education programs. Asthma education is a cornerstone of effective asthma management. Programs that teach patients how to recognize asthma triggers, use inhalers correctly, and manage their symptoms can significantly reduce exacerbations and improve quality of life.

The availability of after-hours care is another crucial factor. Asthma attacks can occur at any time, and patients need access to medical assistance, even outside of regular office hours. Practices that offer after-hours phone consultations, urgent care services, or partnerships with emergency rooms contribute to a higher score.

The analysis needs to assess the availability of pharmacies within the Hernshaw area. Easy access to medication refills is essential for asthma management. The number and location of pharmacies, as well as their ability to provide asthma medications promptly, will impact the score.

The analysis would consider the utilization of electronic health records (EHRs) by local practices. EHRs can improve care coordination, facilitate communication between providers, and allow for better tracking of patient outcomes. Practices that utilize EHRs are often better equipped to manage asthma effectively.

The score would be negatively impacted by factors such as a high prevalence of environmental asthma triggers, such as mold or allergens, in the Hernshaw area. This would necessitate a greater focus on asthma education and environmental control strategies.

The final Asthma Score for doctors in ZIP Code 25107 would be a composite of all these factors. The score would reflect the overall quality and accessibility of asthma care in the Hernshaw area. The score could be presented as a numerical value or a letter grade, along with a detailed explanation of the methodology and findings.

The analysis will involve a thorough examination of publicly available data, including healthcare provider directories, census data, and information from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources. Data collection will also include online research of local healthcare practices, including their websites, patient reviews, and any available information on their services.

The conclusion of this analysis would highlight the key strengths and weaknesses of asthma care in Hernshaw, WV. The final Asthma Score will provide a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

For a visual representation of healthcare access in Hernshaw and surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, pharmacies, and healthcare facilities, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. Discover the power of data visualization to understand the healthcare landscape.